Children's Dentistry

What is a Dental Home and Why is it Important?

June 22nd, 2017

Choosing a dentist for your young child can be a hard and confusing process. As a parent, you want to choose someone that makes your child comfortable and gives them the best dental care available. Here’s why a pediatric dentist is the absolute best choice for children, and how their office is a comfortable dental home.  

Pediatric Dental Offices are Inviting

Pediatric dentists seek to foster a fun and inviting environment that is specifically designed for children. The comfort of your child is one of the most important factors in creating a positive association with visiting the dentist, so we recommend reviewing our practice’s photos to see if they will enjoy their visit. You can also check out our social media channels to get a feel for how fun we are! Facebook is a great place to look for news about our practice, and it’s also a good spot to read some of our patient reviews. 

Easy, Relaxing First Visit

 
Introducing children to a dentist can be a difficult task for any parent. Kids are usually very nervous to visit the doctor or dentist for the first time for a variety of reasons. Pediatric dentists know this, which is why we offer relaxed “meet and greets” for their first office visit. The first visit is a great way for you to speak with us about our practice, and it gives you a chance to gauge how your child responds to the new surroundings. Before you arrive, be sure to tell them that their first visit won’t involve any procedures or “chair time.” Remind them that you are there to meet some new people who want to help them get a healthy smile! 

Trained to Care for Children

Pediatric dentists have had 2-3 years of special training to care for young children and adolescents. Check out the “about us” section of our website to learn more about our dentist’s degrees, professional associations and affiliations, as well as distinguishes and honors. You can rest easy knowing that we have had extensive training which has equipped us to care for your child.  

Sensitive to Special Healthcare Needs

Does your child need any special attention or procedures? Before coming in for a visit, scan our website to see if we offer any specific procedures your child requires. We are specifically trained to treat children with specific healthcare needs. Call us to speak with an office administrator about the different care options that we provide.  

From Toddler to Teen

Pediatric dentists care for children of all ages. From first tooth to adolescence, we help your child develop a healthy smile until they’re ready to move on to a general dentist. We work with you to teach your kids healthy brushing habits, inform them about the importance of flossing, and give them dietary tips that will keep their mouth clean for years to come. 

We Would Love to be Your Dental Home

Providing the best dental care for your child is our top priority, and we would love to speak with you about your child and their dental needs. Establishing a dental home early is very important, so we suggest that you bring your toddler in right after their first tooth emerges. That way, we can craft a dental plan that will help them earn a healthy smile that lasts for life. We see children of all ages, so call us and schedule an office tour! We want to make visiting the dentist fun, and easy for your child. Call us today to schedule an appointment, or a relaxing meet-and-greet.

Brushing for Children at Every Early Stage of Growth

June 20th, 2017

Caring for your child’s mouth is important for their current health and long term tooth development. Keeping a clean mouth helps prevent cavities, infection and gum disease, and it also creates a healthy smile as they get older. However, your child’s oral care routine – and toothbrush – should change as over time as well. Below are some tips to help you clean their mouth as they age.

Babies 1 – 12 months

A baby’s first tooth doesn’t typically erupt until they are 8 months old, but it’s still important to keep their mouth clean. You can clean their gums by taking a damp cloth or gauze and gently rubbing it over their gums to remove any food debris. You may choose to use a very soft, baby toothbrush and lightly brush their gums using a very low amount of pressure to avoid upsetting their sensitive gums. However, a damp cloth works just as well.

Toddlers 13 – 24 months

After the first tooth emerges – usually around the 8 month mark – begin to use a toddler’s toothbrush to clean their mouth. When shopping for a toothbrush, look for one that has rounded bristles and a small head that can easily fit into their mouth. Find a toothbrush that has very soft bristles, without the hard rubber liners on the outside of the head (called burs). You can begin flossing their teeth once they have two teeth touching. Use flat, wide floss and apply very gentle pressure to clean all sides of the tooth.

Preschoolers 2 – 4 years

By now, they will be walking, talking and eager for a bit of independence. They should have most of their teeth, and be familiar with brushing and flossing. Now is the time to start letting them have some input into their oral care routine. Take them with you to pick out their next toothbrush. Children love to be included in making decisions, and by giving them a little bit of responsibility, you empower them to make a decision. Make sure that the head of the toothbrush easily fits inside of their mouth, and that it has soft bristles. Since children lack developed dexterity, look for a toothbrush with a large handle to help them grip it more easily and continue assisting them as they brush. At this stage, you should also still be helping them floss and using the flat, wide dental floss.

School-aged Children 5 – 8 years

Your child is a tooth-brushing master, and the only thing they need to keep making progress is the right toothbrush. Help them pick a toothbrush that has a longer neck, and a larger head than their preschool toothbrush, but still fits comfortably inside their mouth. See if you can help them find a toothbrush with their favorite cartoon character or superhero to keep them engaged and entertained while they brush. If you think they are ready, you can begin to let them floss on their own, but under your supervision. As they approach 8 years of age, they should be ready to brush and floss by themselves.

Aim for Comfort and Consistency

It’s important to buy them a toothbrush that they are comfortable using. Monitor their mouths for any minor bleeding, and ask them about how it felt to use their new toothbrush for the first time. To establish the healthiest oral care routine, be sure that they are brushing twice per day for two minutes at a time. Try to only buy toothbrushes and tooth paste that has the ADA seal of approval, so that they are is getting the best product possible for their oral health.

Visit our office if you have any questions about brushing your child’s teeth, or buying them a toothbrush. We will work with you to help them establish a healthy brushing routine, and teach them about the lifelong benefits of a healthy mouth.

Taking Care of a Mouth after a Pulled Tooth

June 6th, 2017

Baby teeth are meant to be lost so that the incoming adult teeth can erupt without issue. Most of the time, baby teeth are lost naturally, or due to an impactful force common in childhood. However, sometimes a baby tooth must be pulled to make room for the incoming adult tooth to avoid crowding and misalignment. If your child has a tooth extracted, they can experience pain and sensitivity in the following days. Follow these tips to keep your child’s mouth clean – and pain free – after they’ve had a tooth pulled.

The Day of the Extraction

Discourage Sipping from a Straw and Swishing

For up to 24 hours after the extraction, the newly exposed socket is incredibly sensitive. To avoid losing the healthy blood clot, make sure your child doesn’t use a straw during this period. The suction created when slurping can cause the clot to dislodge, and lead to more bleeding. Additionally, they should not vigorously swish any liquids as this can also cause the clot to come loose.

Stick to Soft Food

The day of the extraction, only serve your child soft foods that require little or no chewing. The socket and the area surrounding it will be very sensitive, and chewing firm foods can cause them pain and discomfort. Food that can be eaten with a spoon like mashed potatoes, soup, scrambled eggs, yogurt, apple sauce or pancakes are perfect to serve them in the 24 hours following their pulled tooth. Try to make sure their food isn’t too hot or cold, since their gums will be very sensitive to extreme temperatures.

2 – 7 Days after Tooth Extraction

Use Icepacks to Fight Swelling

Your child may have swollen cheeks in the days immediately following their tooth extraction. A good way to ease your child’s pain and fight swelling is by using an ice pack every 2 – 3 hours, or as needed. Have your child wrap an ice pack in a thin towel or cloth, and apply it to the affected area for 15 minutes at a time.

Incorporate a Saltwater Rinse

After 24 hours, it’s ok to begin using a warm saltwater rinse to clean their exposed socket. You can make a saltwater rinse by combining 8 oz of warm water with 1 teaspoon of salt. Have your child gently swish the saltwater in their mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out. Saltwater rinses clean their mouth and help ease pain in the affected area.

Encourage a “Hands Free” Policy

It’s important that your child does not touch the newly exposed area so that it can remain clean. They should avoid touching or picking at the extraction area so that don’t introduce any germs into the area and prolong the healing process.

Continue Brushing

Your child’s mouth will be very sensitive for a few days after the extraction, but they should continue brushing their teeth twice a day for 2 minutes at a time. They should be more gentle than usual, and avoid brushing the extraction site all together to prevent unnecessary bleeding. They should also continue flossing normally while being careful around the extraction site.

Does Your Child Need a Tooth Pulled?

As pediatric dentists, we understand the importance of proper tooth spacing for incoming adult teeth. If your child has adult teeth arriving directly behind their baby teeth, then visit our office. We will assess their mouth and determine whether or not a tooth extraction would benefit their overall oral health. We aim to make the process as friendly and painless as possible. We’ll guide you through the days and weeks following the extraction and monitor the health of the newly pulled tooth in a series of checkups.

Does Your Family Have Bad Breath? Fix it with These Tips!

May 2nd, 2017

Bad breath is something that everyone has had to deal with at some point in their lives. Medically called Halitosis, children and adults can get bad breath from a variety of causes, most of which are minor and easily fixed. However, bad breath can also indicate more serious issues that require a trip to the dentist. Below are some of the causes – and remedies – for bad breath.

Causes

Certain Foods

Some foods are notorious for causing temporary bad breath. Garlic, onions, fish and spicy foods can turn even the best breath sour. The best way to get rid of bad breath caused by food is to swish cool water around your mouth for 30 seconds, 15 minutes after a meal. Make sure to always brush your teeth after eating a spicy meal, but wait an hour between finishing the meal and brushing so that you don’t damage your enamel.

Medications

Certain medications can cause bad breath. If you have just started taking a new medication recently, then this may be causing bad breath. The way that medications are processed by our bodies may result in bad breath. Continue to brush your teeth twice per day, and consider adding a minty mouthwash to your routine to help mask bad breath.

Leftover Food

Sometimes, food debris can get left in your mouth and will result in bad breath. If this is the case, rinse out your mouth with clean, cool water for 30 seconds to remove any excess debris. If that doesn’t remove leftover food, brush and thoroughly floss to reach any food lodged between your teeth.

Dry Mouth

Saliva naturally cleans the mouth, so when you have  a dry mouth your breath will likely suffer. While there are multiple causes for dry mouth such as stress, anxiety and certain medications, you can usually fix it by eating foods that increase saliva production like cheese, apples or carrots. Make sure to drink enough water – 8 to 10 cups per day- and if that doesn’t help, then try chewing gum sweetened with xylitol – a healthy sugar substitute – to increase your saliva flow.

Poor Oral Hygiene

If you are not brushing twice daily or flossing once per day, then you might get bad breath. To make the most of your oral hygiene routine, make sure that you are brushing for at least two minutes each session. Additionally, check your toothbrush to see if it is still in working order. If the bristles are frayed and it is older than 3 months, then it’s time to replace it.

Infections or Mouth Sores

Bad breath can be the result of oral surgery, open sores or plaque buildup. If you have a mouth sore, you can help treat it and keep it clean by swishing warm salt water in your mouth for 30 seconds. If your bad breath still persists, then see your dentist to help remedy it.

The Best Remedy is Prevention

Most bad breath is the result of poor oral hygiene. If you or your child is maintaining a good dental cleaning regiment – brushing twice per day for 2 minutes at a time and flossing once per day – then you will most likely have fresh breath. However, if your child has a good oral health routine and still suffers from bad breath, then bring them into our office so that we can evaluate their mouth and find the underlying cause.

Water is the Perfect Drink for a Healthy Mouth

April 18th, 2017

It’s no secret that water is one of the healthiest things for your body. Aside from providing proper hydration, water contributes to healthy internal organs, and helps regulate your body temperature through sweat production. But, did you know that water is also one of the best tools for a healthy mouth? Let’s discuss some of the ways that water contributes to oral health.

Improves Saliva Production

Did you know that saliva is 99% water? Or that saliva is critical in the fight against cavities? This makes it imperative that you drink plenty of water so that you can keep your enamel strong, and stay cavity-free. When you are low on saliva, you will most likely experience dry mouth – a condition that makes it hard to swallow and chew because of a lack of saliva. By drinking enough water, you help prevent dry mouth and ensure that your saliva is produced at an optimal rate.

Clears Teeth of Sugar

After you’re done eating, there can be leftover food particles between your teeth, and sugar residue left on tooth surfaces that can lead to cavities. You can clear your teeth of unwanted sugar buildup by rinsing your mouth with water immediately after you eat. Simply swish water around for 30 seconds after you eat to clear your teeth of any sugary or food debris leftover from you previous meal.

Water has No Calories

Rising consumption in sugary beverages has been a major contributor to the increasing rate of obesity in the United States. In fact, people who consume 1 – 2 sugary beverages per day are 26% more likely to develop type 2 diabetes. This can be avoided by substituting colas, sugary juices and sports drinks with a glass of water. Water doesn’t have any calories, and it contains no sugar, which makes it incredibly healthy.

Is Your Child Drinking Enough Water?

Does your child suffer from dry mouth, or have trouble swallowing? Do they drink a lot of colas, juice or sports drinks? If they drink a lot o sugary drinks and find it tough to swallow, then your child may not be drinking enough water, and their teeth could suffer because of it. If you’re worried that your child may not be drinking enough water, then bring them into our office for a consultation. We will thoroughly evaluate your child’s teeth, and provide you with flexible treatment options that are right for them.

Preventing Early Childhood Cavities

March 8th, 2017

It’s never too early to begin a healthy oral care routine. In fact, you should begin caring for your child’s gums long before their first tooth emerges, which is usually around the six-month mark of their life. Healthy gums are an important predicator of healthy teeth, and maintaining clean gums will help ensure that your child has healthy, cavity-free baby teeth. But how can you keep your infant’s mouth clean? Below are some tips that will you keep your new child’s mouth clean, and set them up for a healthy smile later in life.

Avoid Baby Bottle Tooth Decay

Baby bottle tooth decay is one of the most common ailments that young children encounter. It usually occurs when infants drink milk or other sugary beverages in their bottle without cleaning their mouths afterwards. You can avoid baby bottle tooth decay by giving your child water after they’ve had milk, and by limiting or eliminating sugary beverages in their bottles. If your child requires a bedtime bottle, then make sure that it is filled with only water so that you’re not exposing their teeth to sugar for long periods.

Use a Washcloth

You can clean your infant’s gums – or their first teeth – by simply using a cold, clean wash cloth. Simply rinse a clean, soft wash cloth with cool water and wring it out. After your child has finished eating, or drinking a sugary drink, use the damp wash cloth to gently wipe out their mouth. This will remove any sugar or acid that’s left by their food, and help prevent early cavities.

Find the Right toothbrush

Once your child has a few more baby teeth – usually between 8 and 12 months – then you can graduate from a wash cloth to a toothbrush designed for toddlers. There are a lot of toothbrushes designed for babies and toddlers from which to choose. Generally speaking, toothbrushes designed for babies have much softer bristles and a smaller head than those meant for older children.

After finding the right toothbrush, begin brushing your child’s teeth and gums twice per day. Make sure to be extra gentle, since their teeth and gums are still developing and are quite sensitive. Use toothpaste with fluoride that is made for very young children, and not as spicy as adult’s toothpaste. Use only a smear of toothpaste – about the size of a grain of rice – to brush their teeth. When they’ve gotten older and have more teeth, use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste. Always be sure to rinse their mouth out with cool water after you’re done brushing, and try to keep them from swallowing any toothpaste.

Visit Our Office

If you’ve just had a baby, and are unsure about how to properly care for their mouth, then visit our office. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry advises new parents that their child should establish a dental home by their first birthday. By doing so, you can help your child avoid cavities, and become more comfortable visiting the dentist as they age. Our office is designed to cater to children, and create a relaxing and unintimidating atmosphere which they look forward to visiting.

Tooth Travel Kits are Perfect for Kids on the go

February 22nd, 2017

The school year demands a lot of time commitments from both students and parents. Between altering morning commutes, trucking kids to and from extracurricular activities and unexpected overnights, schedules change and time seems to slip away. Sometimes, a jam-packed schedule can leave us with less time to take care of our teeth at home, which is why we’ve decided to create the tooth travel kit for those kids (and parents) with demanding schedules.

Toothbrush

This one is a no-brainer, but everyone should be brushing their teeth twice per day for two minutes at a time. Buy your child a new toothbrush with the ADA seal of approval on the package. Additionally, buy a small travel case or cover for the toothbrush to keep the head clean and the bristles in good shape.

Tooth Paste

You can’t really brush your teeth without toothpaste, so toothpaste is a must for any oral health care kit! Look for a travel-sized tube that can easily fit in a small storage bag, and check to make sure that the toothpaste contains fluoride to enhance its cleaning power. Again, look for the ADA seal of approval to ensure that it has been thoroughly evaluated, and find a flavor that your child likes.

Floss

Brushing only cleans about 1/3 of the total surface area of teeth which leaves most of the teeth unclean! Your child should floss once per day, and clean between every space in their teeth. Your tooth travel kit should contain a small pack of travel floss for them, or a set of floss picks to encourage them to regularly floss.

Xylitol Gum

Chewing gum that is sweetened with Xylitol is a great way for your child to freshen their breath and help protect their enamel after a meal. Gum sweetened with Xylitol can help protect enamel by stimulating saliva production that can clear teeth of residual acid from a recent meal.

Bottled Water

Water is one of the best tools we have in keeping our mouths clean, especially fluoridated water, which helps make teeth more resistant to acidic foods. When packing your child’s tooth travel kit, pack a bottle of water, and encourage your kids to drink water instead of juice or soda. Also, swishing water helps remove debris caught in teeth that can lead to enamel loss and acid buildup.

Visit Our Office

We love helping busy parents find solutions that keep their families’ oral health in focus. Schedule an appointment in our office so that we can thoroughly evaluate your child’s smile, and provide them with oral health tips and treatment options that work.

Electric Vs. Standard Toothbrush, which is right for my child?

February 8th, 2017

As your child begins brushing their own teeth, it can be difficult to choose the right toothbrush for their overall oral health. The market is flooded with products all claiming to clean teeth better than the rest. But, what about an electric toothbrush? Is it really better than a standard toothbrush? The answer may surprise you.

Manual Toothbrushes

Manual toothbrushes are the most popular type of toothbrush for children because they are reliable, and come in a variety of shapes, colors and designs that many kids find appealing. They are also much more inexpensive than electric toothbrushes, which make them a great option for a cost-conscious family. However, manual toothbrushes can be difficult for young children that are just learning to brush their teeth, since they lack the dexterity needed to adequately clean their teeth. If you decide to buy your child a standard toothbrush, invite them along so that they can help you choose it. This makes them more likely to find a toothbrush that they will actually want to use.

Electric Toothbrushes

Electric toothbrushes are handy tools for teeth of all ages, and can make brushing fun for young children. Most electric toothbrushes also feature timers, which can help ensure that children brush for the recommended two minutes per session. Additionally, many electric toothbrushes feature a pressure sensor which helps kids limit how hard they are brushing to prevent upsetting or damaging their gums. Electric toothbrushes are perfect for very young children that don’t have the dexterity to adequately brush their own teeth. However, electric toothbrushes are typically more expensive than manual ones.

Just Brush

Regardless of the toothbrush, the most important thing is that your child brushes their teeth for two minutes, twice per day. When you do purchase a toothbrush for your child, make sure that it has the ADA seal of approval on the package somewhere, which ensures that it has been thoroughly vetted by a team of oral healthcare experts.

Visit our Office

If your child has sensitive teeth, then visit our office. Sensitive teeth could indicate tooth decay or cavities. We will perform an extensive oral exam to assess the state of their overall mouth-health, and provide a treatment plan that works for their specific case. Schedule an appointment with our office today!

Charlotte Pediatric Dentist Wants to See Your Kids

August 28th, 2016

Hopefully, you have a family dentist that you see regularly for dental checkups. You should also have a Charlotte pediatric dentist to care for the littlest smiles in your house. As a pediatric dentist, Dr. Mujica completed four years of schooling at the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine as well as the Pediatric Dental Residency program at the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry. She received a Certificate of Residency in Pediatric Dentistry along with a Master of Science degree in Dentistry, and is now a member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the North Carolina Academy of Pediatric Dentists.

Why Choose a Pediatric Dentist?

The difference between a general dentist and a pediatric dentist is usually noticeable the moment you walk in the door. Our office is filled with décor and amenities that are intended to make children feel welcome and relaxed. But of course the advantages go much further than just what meets the eye. Dr. Mujica and her team of dental hygienists and dental assistants have received special training to treat child of all ages appropriately. Whether your child is barely walking or is almost ready to borrow the car keys, he or she will feel completely comfortable with our care. Even children who are anxious or fearful of seeing the dentist are put at ease. And if you child has significant dental concerns, then Dr. Mujica’s additional training in pediatric dentistry is especially important.

Charlotte Pediatric Dentistry and the Special Needs Child

In addition to her education and training in pediatric dentistry, Charlotte dentist Dr. Mujica has the heart for treating children with special needs. All of the protocols that apply to typically developing children also apply to special needs children. We can create a treatment plan that includes consideration of issues with strength, mobility, motor coordination and cognition. And with the approval of your child’s primary care physician, we can use one of three kinds of sedation dentistry—nitrous oxide, conscious oral sedation and IV sedation—to help allay a child’s fears.

Educating You and Your Child

Dr. Mujica and her team genuinely love spending time with you and your child. We also value the opportunity this gives us to help you take better care of your children’s teeth and to instruct kids on how best to brush and floss. We know that if good oral health care habits start at a young age then they are more likely to stick for long into the future.

Call Our Office Today

If you would like to schedule an appointment with Charlotte pediatric dentist Dr. Mujica, contact All Kids Pediatric Dentistry today.

Helping Kids Feel Comfortable at The Dentist From Your Kid’s Dentist in Charlotte

June 8th, 2016

Many people feel anxious about their dental appointments, and while we don’t want our children to have the same fears, sometimes they feel fearful too. There are many ways to help your child feel more comfortable about their visits to the dental office. From finding the right provider to work with, to using different sedation options to help them relax, it’s important to help your child successfully get through their early dental appointments in order to set them up for successful future visits. All Kid’s Pediatric Dentistry, your kid’s dentist in Charlotte, offers some more tips and ideas on how to help your child feel comfortable at the dentist.

Find the Right Provider

Finding the right practitioner to work with is important whether you’re an adult or child. You may have spent a lot of time finding your child’s pediatrician, and the same goes for their dental provider. Finding a dentist who specializes in working with children can make all the difference for fearful children.

Pediatric dental offices are set up just for children, with age appropriate dental instruments, toys and a fun environment that may help take their mind off their appointment. A pediatric dentist will be able to quickly build rapport with your child and put them at ease.

Sedation for Children

If your child needs a little extra TLC to get through their appointments, you may consider working with a practitioner who offers sedation for children. There are typically three options for dental sedation:

  • Nitrous Oxide – or laughing gas, which helps your child feel more relaxed, yet wears off quickly after their appointment.
  • Oral Sedation – this is typically a liquid or pill prescribed by your dentist that will help your child feel relaxed, almost as if they slept through their appointment, they won’t have much memory of the procedure.
  • IV Sedation – this is typically used for children with severe anxiety or behavioral issues. This type of sedation helps them get much needed and often multiple procedures done at one time.

At All Kids Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Marcela Mujica specializes in working with children. By using the tell/show/do method, she puts her young patients at ease by first explaining the procedure they will have done, showing them what will happen, and finally performing the procedure after they feel comfortable and at ease. For our small patients who feel fearful about their dental visits, we offer different sedation options to help them feel relaxed and comfortable during their appointments.

Dr. Mujica is a mom herself, and she understands how important these first visits are for future success at the dental office. We will do everything we can to help your child feel comfortable and get the care that they need and deserve. Contact our office today to learn more.

Charlotte pediatric dentist advises on kids’ toothaches

April 27th, 2016

Your child complains of a sore tooth. In fact, it’s starting to throb. Is it something serious, or simply a tooth developing under the gumline? Dr. Marcela Mujica of All Kids Pediatric Dentistry in Charlotte tells parents to investigate and contact the office for advice.

Many things cause toothaches in children

Developing and soon to erupt teeth sometimes cause jaw pain and gum soreness. Even big teenagers feel miserable when wisdom teeth are on the move. However, your Charlotte pediatric dentist recommends you be absolutely sure why your child is experiencing dental pain. In other words, investigate the source. Many times a cavity, dental abscess (infection), hairline crack or loose filling is the cause of pain, and as such, it needs treatment at All Kids Dentistry.

Take a look

Dr. Mujica advises you look into your child’s mouth to see what’s happening. Decay may be as obvious as small brown spots on the offending tooth. Reddened, swollen gums frequently accompany infection. Also, parents should look for impacted food residue between teeth.

Check all oral surfaces carefully. Look for any obvious injuries--cracks, chips, cuts to the tongue, gums, etc. Question your child as to any recent injury he or she did not mention. Cold sores on the gums are very painful; so look for them as well.

What to do

Get your child comfortable as soon as possible. Over the counter children’s acetaminophen or ibuprofen relieves pain and swelling as does putting a small amount of clove oil on irritated gums. Additionally, an ice pack relieves discomfort when applied for short periods of time. Rubbing the gums with aspirin or whiskey, an old-fashioned toothache remedy, simply burns soft oral tissues; so Dr. Mujica cautions against using these items.

Seeing your Charlotte children’s dentist

Investigate toothache that is severe or that lasts overnight. Contact All KIds Dentistry for an appointment or other directions on what to do.

Areas of serious concern such as decay, infection or fracture require oral examination, x-rays and treatment. Dr. Mujica offers tooth-colored fillings, root canal therapy and crowns even for the youngest of patients. The objectives are getting the patient comfortable and addressing failing or injured tooth structure. Even baby teeth are important to a child’s speech development, appearance, digestion and sense of well-being. Additionally, baby teeth help developing teeth form and erupt properly.

The best toothache cure

Preventive dental care helps avoid toothaches. KIds should brush and floss daily with parental supervision and get semi-annual check-ups and cleanings with their Charlotte pediatric dentist. Also, fluoride treatments and sealants protect against cavities--the number one disease condition in American children.

Why not contact Dr. Mujica’s staff today to schedule your child’s routine dental visit? Ask about other ways to prevent and treat pediatric toothaches.

When to Visit Your Children’s Dentist in Charlotte

November 20th, 2015

 New parents have a lot of questions when it comes to caring for their little one’s teeth. If that sounds like you, we’ve got good news: your children’s dentist in Charlotte, Dr. Marcela Murjica, is in for a little question and answer session this morning. Keep reading for the Q&A from your child’s favorite dentist in Charlotte.

Your Questions Are Answered By the Charlotte Children’s Dentist

Dr. M answers the top questions about children’s oral care.

Q: When should my child first visit the dentist?

A: You should schedule your child’s first dental appointment around the time their teeth begin to erupt, with regular, twice annual visits beginning no later than their first birthday. It may seem young, but decay can begin with that very first tooth. And remember this truth: starting your baby off with regular visits to the dentist from a young age teaches them there’s nothing to fear from the dentist.

Q: What will happen at my baby’s first dental appointment?

A: Your little one’s first dental appointment will consist of a brief checkup for decay or other problems, a light cleaning if needed, plus time for you to ask questions you may have about how to care for their little teeth.

Q: How do I know if I’m cleaning my child’s teeth well enough?

The great thing about bringing your baby into the dentist early is that it gives us a chance to make sure you’re properly caring for his or her teeth and gums, and give advice if you’re missing some spots. Make sure you’re cleaning the whole mouth with a soft washcloth before teeth erupt, or a toothbrush with soft bristles after teeth erupt. Clean thoroughly after each feeding, and limit sugar intake for good oral health.

Q: Is fluoride necessary for my little one?

A: During your baby’s first dental appointment, we will determine whether he or she could benefit from added fluoride. Some parents have reservations about incorporating the mineral into their family’s diet, but fluoride is truly vital for strong teeth and excellent oral health overall.

Q: How can I prevent baby bottle tooth decay?

A: Tooth decay in babies and toddlers is easily prevented with just a little education about good bottle use. To prevent baby bottle tooth decay, keep these things in mind:

  • Never dip your child’s pacifier in a sugary substance (like honey)
  • Never put your child to sleep sucking a bottle filled with anything other than water
  • Stick to milk, formula and water for bottle beverages

Q: How can I schedule my child’s appointment?

If your little one is ready for his or her first dental checkup, or if it’s been more than six months since your older child has visited the dentist, give All Kids Pediatric Dentistry a call today. We’ll be happy to schedule his or her appointment — because we want to see our little neighbors smiling healthily today, and for years to come.

The Children’s Dentist Charlotte Parents Depend On

November 2nd, 2015

Halloween is known for candy, Thanksgiving is known for pie, and Christmas is known for cookies. What better time than now to review the steps you need to take to make sure your children have healthy and happy smiles during the holiday season. Charlotte children’s dentist Dr. Marcela Mujica and her team at All Kids Pediatric Dentistry want your children to enjoy the benefits of proper oral hygiene throughout their lives, and that begins with establishing a solid foundation at an early age.

And when we say early, we mean early. Even before your baby has one tooth, it’s important to care for their oral health. After each feeding, regardless of whether your child is bottle fed or breast fed, wipe their gums with a clean, soft cloth that has been dampened with warm water. This will remove the sugars that milk leaves behind, thereby giving your baby a better chance at good oral health.

Another important step you can take to increase your baby’s chances of having a healthy smile is not to clean a pacifier by placing it in your mouth. The practice isn’t often admitted, but the truth is many parents do this when a pacifier drops on the floor and proper washing isn’t convenient. The problem is that when you put your baby’s pacifier in your mouth and then back in your child’s, you may be introducing the bacteria that cause tooth decay and gum disease.

As your baby grows and more teeth erupt, you’ll need to begin brushing their teeth regularly. Use a soft baby toothbrush and water to begin, and then as their smiles develop you can add a tiny amount of toothpaste. Keep the amount of toothpaste to a minimum until your child is old enough to spit, somewhere between the ages of two and three. And don’t forget to floss, a very important component of oral hygiene that removes plaque from between teeth where decay or gum disease often begin.

You should begin bringing your child to see Dr. Mujica for twice yearly dental checkups by the time they turn one year old. Starting this early helps your child establish a lifelong dedication to proper oral health care. Children need biannual dental cleanings and exams just like adults do. These regularly scheduled visits allow us to keep close tabs on your children’s dental health and development. We’ll not only clean and polish their teeth, we’ll also look for signs of cavities as well as gum disease.

Fluoride Treatments and Dental Sealants

Dr. Mujica may recommend fluoride treatments and dental sealants to help your children avoid tooth decay. Fluoride is a mineral that is found in nature and has been proven to strengthen teeth enamel. We can apply a fluoride treatment to your children’s teeth. Dental sealants are applied as a liquid plastic to the biting surfaces of your children’s molars. The liquid is then quickly hardened with a curing light and becomes a solid that is a barrier between teeth and decay-causing bacteria.

Call Our Office Today

To schedule a visit with Dr. Mujica, call All Kids Pediatric Dentistry in Charlotte, NC, today. We look forward to meeting you and your children!

Charlotte Dentist Gives Tips for Preventing Cavities

October 30th, 2015

Seeing your child smile makes your day -- and you know what? It makes our day, too. That’s why All Kids Pediatric Dentistry is your trusted Charlotte dentist. Dr. Marcela Mujica, D.M.D, M.S.D. and her whole team want to keep your child smiling now, and for many years to come -- and to do that, we need to protect their young teeth from decay. That’s especially important during the halloween and holiday season. Listen up -- this morning, Dr. Mujica is in with some key tips for preventing cavities this month, and all year long!

Your Child’s Oral Health A Factor in Overall Health, Too

When your child has a healthy mouth, free from infection and decay, he is far more likely to be healthier overall. Poor oral health contributes to a number of problems in young children -- from malnutrition to loss of sleep and a higher risk of future orthodontic issues. To prevent cavities and other oral problems, keep the following tips in mind.

#1: Monitor Her Cleaning Techniques

Once your child reaches age six, she should be ready to start brushing her teeth on her own. That doesn’t mean it’s time for you to step down, though -- Dr. Mujica says it’s just as important for you to be beside her as she brushes, making sure each quadrant of the mouth gets a full clean. Emphasize the importance of brushing for two minutes, twice a day, and flossing once a day.

#2: Set Some House Rules

Your child’s teeth are especially vulnerable during the halloween and holiday season, when candy and special treats are all around. It’s important to establish some rules to prevent frequent snacking at home -- one good one is banning candy in the bedroom. When treats are relegated to a specific area, like the kitchen, little ones are far less likely to indulge all day long or fall asleep with candy in their mouth, a huge cause of tooth decay in kids.

#3: And Some Lifestyle Rules, Too

Help your child understand that eating a healthy, balanced diet is good for their teeth, too. Halloween can be a great time to talk about this, says Dr. Mujica. Let them know you understand it’s exciting to have lots of candy, but that moderation is key. Encourage them to rinse their mouth out after eating or drinking sugary items, too. If they do it often enough it’ll become a clean feeling they’ll crave -- and their teeth will be healthier as a result.

#4: Set the Example They Need

Your child looks up to you for everything, and it’s no different with their oral health. Make sure you’re setting an excellent oral hygiene example by brushing and flossing consistently, and staying on top of your twice annual visits to the dentist. Talk positively about the dentist and oral health, and if your child dreads oral hygiene tasks, you can try making them a family event -- she’ll be far more excited to brush and floss if everyone is doing it at the same time.

Schedule a Post-Halloween, Pre-Holiday Checkup Today

If it’s been six months or more since your child’s last dental checkup and cleaning, schedule an appointment at All Kids Pediatric Dentistry today. Good oral hygiene is especially important this time of year, so make sure your child is starting the holiday season off cavity-free with a visit to the dentist in Charlotte -- we’ll work to help their teeth stay healthy today, and for years to come. Call us to schedule your child’s dental appointment today.